Explore Subregion
Szczawnica is an ideal destination for those seeking health and wellness, thanks to its mineral waters, which have a beneficial effect on health. Additionally, the town offers numerous green areas with trees that release health-promoting essential oils. Located in the Grajcarek Valley, between the Pieniny Mountains and the Silesian Beskid, Szczawnica is also an excellent place for mountain enthusiasts, kayaking lovers, and cyclists. Furthermore, it boasts charming wooden architecture with elements of Zakopane and Swiss styles, as well as a promenade stretching along the Grajcarek River.
Etymology of the name Szczawnica
The name Szczawnica comes from the acidic mineral springs located in the area, known as “szczawy.” These springs are formed by tectonic activity, which is why they are saturated with carbon dioxide. They also have a high sodium content, which is beneficial for health.
Mineral waters
Thanks to the geological conditions in Szczawnica, you can sample various mineral waters at the Mineral Water Pavilion on Dietla Square. It is open from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and from Friday to Sunday between 9:00 AM and 8:00 PM. The pavilion offers the following waters: Helena, Jan, Józef, Józefina, and Stefan, which you can drink on the premises or take home with you.
The promenade along the Grajcarek stream
The promenade along the Grajcarek stream in Szczawnica is one of the longest pedestrian promenades in Poland (1800 m). It is an ideal place for cyclists and pedestrians who want to enjoy the beauty of the mountains. The route starts at the lower station of the cable car to Palenica and ends at the Dunajec River, from where you can continue your journey to Slovakia.
Volcanoes in the Pieniny Mountains
Bryjarka and Jarmuty, rising above Szczawnica, are remnants of extinct volcanoes. By climbing to the summits of both mountains, we can observe volcanic rocks that are unique to the Beskid Mountains, making them a true geological gem of this region.
The origin of mineral waters
Near volcanoes, gases are released, mainly carbon dioxide, known as “volcanic emanations.” Although the volcanoes in the Pieniny Mountains became extinct long ago, these gases remain trapped in the rocks. When water encounters carbon dioxide in the ground, it becomes acidic, which facilitates the dissolution of the rocks it flows through. This leads to the mineralization of the water. Such mineralized, acidic mineral waters emerge at the foot of Bryjarka, which contributed to the development of the popular spa town of Szczawnica. The motif of Bryjarka appears on the town’s coat of arms, emphasizing the importance of this mountain for the spa.

